Problem solveGet help with specific problems with your technologies, process and projects.

How Red Hat and SUSE Linux partner programs compare

Although a number of vendors offer Linux partner programs, larger customers often choose either Red Hat Enterprise Linux or Novell's SUSE Linux Enterprise. These tips explain the key differences between the two vendors.

As most Linux channel partners already know, there are many flavors of Linux to choose from (and, therefore, many Linux partners to consider). But most large customers that decide to move to Linux will choose either Red Hat Enterprise Linux or Novell's SUSE Linux Enterprise.

Deciding which of these two big Linux vendors to align with as a channel partner will involve a number of considerations. From a bird's-eye view, the two companies are similar: Both are well-established and have large customer bases, as well as strong support systems for enterprise customers. In addition, both Red Hat and Novell have developed healthy Linux partnerships with large vendors such as Oracle and IBM. And both companies have huge stakes in the market: Novell has bet its future on SUSE Linux; Red Hat has been a Linux developer since its inception. And both distributions continue to grow.

But if you look closer, you'll see there are some key differences between the two companies. Red Hat's leadership in the Linux market positions it as an attractive partner. Novell, on the other hand, has a great partner program, which compensates somewhat for its lack of market share.

The tips in the table of contents below outline a breakdown of the two companies' Linux partner programs, and offer advice about which direction you should head in.

Start the conversation

0 comments

Register

I agree to TechTarget’s Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and the transfer of my information to the United States for processing to provide me with relevant information as described in our Privacy Policy.

Please check the box if you want to proceed.

I agree to my information being processed by TechTarget and its Partners to contact me via phone, email, or other means regarding information relevant to my professional interests. I may unsubscribe at any time.